Astros close to picking Opening Day starter

DUNEDIN, Fla. – With the season opener 12 days away, Astros manager Bo Porter says he might be ready to announce his opening day soon. Righthanders Bud Norris and Lucas Harrell are the top two candidates for the opening day start.

Harrell will start Thursday and Norris will start Friday in what will likely be their penultimate Grapefruit League outings.

“We’re getting close,” Porter said. “By next week we got to have it lined up, so we’ll let them take their turn. And then (the decision will) be coming to a theater near you.”

The roster and rotation are starting to clear up for the Astros.

“I think we’re still at that point where we’re working through some things,” Porter said. “I think a lot of the things are starting to pretty much pan out themselves. Guys are starting to get extended in games and I think the decisions will come soon.”